Florida Father and Son Accused of Kidnapping Car Salesmen at Gunpoint After Mercedes-Benz Deal Collapsed, Police Say
HOLLYWOOD, FLORIDA — A father and son in South Florida were arrested after deputies say they kidnapped two car salesmen at gunpoint, demanding a refund for a Mercedes-Benz and forcing the victims to drive them across town during a tense standoff.
According to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office, 50-year-old Oscar Garcia-Berrios and his son, 23-year-old Brandon Garcia, now face charges of kidnapping, armed robbery, and aggravated assault.
Deal for 2021 Mercedes-Benz Turns Into Armed Standoff
Deputies say the trouble began when the men purchased a used 2021 Mercedes-Benz for $37,000, planning to finalize paperwork on Nov. 28 at Car Express Florida in Pompano Beach.
Earlier that afternoon, Garcia allegedly received a text about a temporary tag from one of the salesmen. Prosecutors say he misinterpreted it as a sign he was being ripped off, triggering the confrontation.
When one of the victims arrived at the dealership, he saw Garcia, Garcia-Berrios, and an unidentified third man waiting by the Mercedes — one holding a backpack.
Inside that backpack, deputies say, was an AR-15-style rifle.
Salesmen Threatened at Gunpoint: ‘I’m Not Playing Any Games’
Investigators say the suspects demanded the title be immediately transferred and that a temporary tag be issued. When one salesman explained additional documentation was required, the threats escalated.
According to the arrest affidavit, Brandon Garcia allegedly pulled out the AR-15, pointed it directly at the salesman and warned:
“I’m not playing any games.”
His father, Garcia-Berrios, allegedly drew a handgun at the same time.
A third suspect reportedly noticed one of the victims had a firearm tucked in his waistband — and took it from him, leaving the salesmen fearing for their lives.
Victims Forced Into Vehicle and Driven to Another Location
With their manager unreachable, the salesmen told deputies the suspects raided the office, taking:
- Temporary tags
- Vehicle registration documents
- A money counter
- Other dealership items
After nearly 40 minutes, investigators say the suspects forced the victims into a vehicle at gunpoint.
Garcia-Berrios allegedly held the victims in their own car, while his son followed behind in the Mercedes and the third suspect trailed in an SUV.
One of the victims discreetly texted family, warning:
“Call the police. We’re being taken.”
Police Intercept Kidnappers at Gas Station After 911 Tip
The victims convinced the suspects to drive to a RaceTrac station in Hollywood, claiming their manager would meet them there.
Family members alerted police, and deputies rushed to the location.
When officers arrived, they saw Brandon Garcia holding the same backpack. Inside, deputies found:
- The AR-15-style rifle
- One suspect’s cell phone
A handgun was also recovered from Garcia-Berrios.
Both men were taken into custody without further violence and were booked into the Broward County Jail, where they remain held without bond.
Their next court appearance is scheduled for Friday. The third suspect involved in the kidnapping has not yet been identified.
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